The **U.N. children's fund (UNICEF)** has emphasized the urgent need for governments to prioritize the **safety** of **migrant children** following a recent **Mediterranean shipwreck** that left about 20 people missing.
Among the survivors was an **8-year-old girl** whose mother is among those unaccounted for, highlighting the dangers faced by vulnerable migrant populations.
According to the **International Organization of Migration**, **2,275 people** are currently missing in the Mediterranean in 2024, with a total of **31,180** missing since 2014.
UNICEF stated that governments must adhere to **international law** by providing safe pathways for refugee protection and ensuring **search and rescue operations**.
Italy, facing increased migration, has implemented strict measures aimed at reducing arrivals while grappling with humanitarian obligations.
For more details, visit the original article at AP News.